People hiking through lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Beaches, Parks & Gardens

Think “beach day,” Keys-style. Here, sandy stretches pop up in a few special spots, but most water access comes with a twist—limestone rocks, shady mangroves, and clear shallows that feel like your own natural swimming pool. Add in tropical gardens, local parks and playgrounds, and trails perfect for wandering, and you’ve got plenty of ways to play outside. From state parks to secret picnic spots, these listings prove you don’t need miles of sand to enjoy paradise—you just need a sunblock and a little curiosity.

Filters
Destination
Category
Marathon

Coco Plum Beach

This secluded beach on the Atlantic side of Marathon offers calm, shallow waters perfect for kayaking, with free parking, restrooms, and a shower.

Key West

Wilhelmina Harvey Park

Wilhelmina Harvey Park — a neighborhood rec park with playground, picnic area and walking trail on Big Pine Key.

Key Largo

Peace Park At Nelson Government Center

Bayfront park with pavilions & scenic picnic views in Key Largo

The Lower Keys

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park – Florida Keys gem with white-sand beaches, crystal-clear snorkeling zones, historic bridge views, and lush nature

Key West

Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach — Key West’s scenic oceanfront escape for sun, swim, and seaside strolls.

Islamorada

Founders Park

45-acre recreation park in Islamorada with beach, pool, sports & playgrounds.

Marathon

Marathon Wild Bird Center

Rescue, rehab, and release wild birds in the Florida Keys—join the mission!

Marathon

Children's Rotary Park

Children's Rotary Park in Marathon, Florida, features a wooden playground with slides, tunnels, and themed play structures, plus a picnic pavilion, restrooms, and a dog park.

The Lower Keys

Big Coppitt Volunteer Fire Department Park

The park includes a basketball court, roller hockey rink, and a handball court. There are six tables and benches available for use.

Key Largo

Key Largo Community Park and Pool

14-acre Key Largo park: courts, pool, fields & trails open daily.

The Lower Keys

Watson Field Park & Big Pine Key Dog Park

Watson Field Park & Big Pine Key Dog Park — multi-use recreation park with athletic courts and a fenced off-leash dog area on Big Pine Key.

The Lower Keys

Sugarloaf Shark Park

Sugarloaf Shark Park — scenic waterfront park on Sugarloaf Key with fishing, picnicking, and waterside views.

Key Largo

REEF Ocean Exploration Center for Marine Conservation

Explore the REEF Ocean Exploration Center: inspiring ocean discovery and conservation!

Marathon

Marathon Community Park

A vibrant 13.5-acre all-ages park in Marathon with sports fields, courts, playgrounds, picnic areas & more.

Key Largo

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Established in 1980, Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge protects tropical hardwood hammocks, mangroves, and salt marsh habitats as part of the Florida Keys NWRs complex.